Logo image
Schedule
HostsWays to Give
HomePlaylistSchedule
HostsEventsOn DemandOur StoryOur TeamWays to Give Become a Sponsor
How to ListenVisit Help CenterContact Us

Find Us on Social Media

Logo image

Download Our Mobile App

google play icon

About

HomePlaylistSchedule
HostsOn DemandOur StoryOur Team

Community

EventsWays to Give Become a SponsorPressDiversity StatementCareersKUSC EEO ReportKDFC EEO ReportDigital Accessibility

Help

How to ListenVisit Help CenterContact Us

Find Us on Social Media

Sweepstakes RulesKUSC Local Public FilesKDFC Local Public FilesPrivacy PolicyCode of Integrity

©2026 Classical California

articles / Pop Culture

The Ophi-What?

Pop Culture


The ophicleide is an instrument that had a brief heyday in the 19th century until it was replaced by the tuba. Berlioz included it in his Symphonie Fantastique. Mendelssohn, Verdi and Wagner also wrote for it.

The unusual name comes from two Greek words: ophis (serpent) and kleis (key). The ophicleide is a keyed version of its predecessor, the aptly named serpent.


The ophicleide was invented in 1821 and it was used in military bands as well as orchestras.


It was also associated with the clergy. A series of 19th century French postcards depicted “The Priest and his Ophicleide.”


And what does an ophicleide sound like?

Pop Culture
Written by:
Alan Chapman
Alan Chapman
Published on 05.11.2018
Loading...

MORE LIKE THIS

In Praise of the Violin

In Praise of the Violin

This article traces the history of the violin from its 16th-century Italian origins, through its evolution in playing techniques, to its role in classical music. It also explores its unique construction.

05/09/2018
Ping Pong on the Concert Stage

Ping Pong on the Concert Stage

Explore how a visit to Spin, a trendy Ping-Pong club in NYC, inspired composer Andy Akiho to create his piece Ricochet, performed by the New York Philharmonic.

02/26/2018
The Olympic Theme Explained

The Olympic Theme Explained

Explore the history and structure of the NBC Olympic Theme, composed by John Williams for the 1984 LA Olympics, and discover a unique rendition of this iconic tune.

02/15/2018
The Ophi-What?

The Ophi-What?

Explore the history of the ophicleide, a 19th-century instrument used in orchestras and military bands, famously included in works by Berlioz, Mendelssohn, Verdi, and Wagner.

11/16/2017
Cocktails with the Coloratura?

Cocktails with the Coloratura?

San Francisco Opera tests a new policy allowing drinks in the hall, using compostable cups. This move, common in England, sparks debate on opera etiquette and culture.

06/21/2017
Stash the Stilettos

Stash the Stilettos

Symphony organizations are asking musicians to audition barefoot to ensure blind auditions, eliminating bias based on gender, race, or age.

03/22/2017